Lightweight Mud Boots
Cruiser 16-inch over-the-sock boots are built to handle concrete and other demanding wet work and have composite safety toes, yet weigh just 2.1 pounds per pair – or 60 percent less than equivalent PVC boots, says the manufacturer. The seamless insulating boots are composed of a UV- and chemical-resistant EVA closed-cell polymer that forms a self-cleaning, shock-absorbing lug sole and allegedly won’t tear on rebar wire. Made in the U.S., they’re available in brown or white and cost about $80 per pair. Billy Boots, 925/354-9908, billybootsusa.com
Classic Cordless Multi-Tool
According to Fein, the new 14.4-volt cordless MultiMaster oscillating multi-tool (AFMM 14) delivers the same performance as the corded version. The variable-speed tool is powered by 3-amp-hour lithium-ion batteries for extended runtime, has a push-button fuel gauge on every battery, and lets you swap accessories at the flip of a lever. A kit containing the tool, two batteries, a charger, an accessory package, and a plastic case costs $500. Fein Power Tools, 800/441-9878, multimaster.info
Polite Compressor
When Rolair fired up the new 39-pound model JC10 compressor in its booth, I could barely hear it above the background noise. That’s because the machine’s 1,725-rpm motor and pump emit just 60 decibels, which is no louder than a normal conversation. The 2.5-gallon oilless compressor is supposed to start easily in cold weather and draws just 8 amps, so it won’t trip breakers. If you unplug it while it’s running, it relieves the head pressure so it can restart easily when you plug it back in. A roll cage protects the vitals. According to Rolair, the compressor will power one or two roofing nailers or two to four finish nailers. It costs about $210. Rolair, 920/349-3281, rolair.com
Combo Laser
Pacific Laser’s new PLS 4 laser projects a level and vertical layout line, just like the popular PLS 180. But the PLS 4 also projects up and down plumb points and can handle almost any layout challenge except a 3-4-5. It’s powered by three AA batteries that come with the tool. Also included are a magnetic wall bracket, a floor stand, a pouch, and a case. The PLS 4 System adds a laser detector for outdoor use. The tool costs around $380 and the system around $480. Pacific Laser Systems, 800/601-4500, plslaser.com
Triple-Duty Framing Nailer
Due to launch this summer, Fasco’s F58AC RHN20-90 SCR strip nailer will drive three types of 20-degree plastic-collated fasteners: full round-head nails ranging from 1 inch to 31?2 inches long, concrete pins ranging from 1 inch to 21?2 inches long, and a variety of Fasco’s hybrid Scrail fasteners ranging up to 3 inches long. Scrail fasteners sink like nails but can be adjusted or removed like screws, and they’re used for installing subfloors and decking, assembling concrete forms, and more. The new nailer will also prevent dry-firing and feature a removable magazine for clearing jams. The maker declined to provide pricing. Fasco America, 800/239-8665, fascoamerica.com
Simple Hinge Jig
I’ve made my share of router jigs over the years for quickly mortising doors and jambs for hinges, but the Trend full-length aluminum-box-beam contractor hinge jig I saw at the show might have saved me some time and trouble. At a glance, it appeared to be almost as uncomplicated as my plywood jigs, but it adjusts easily to accommodate various hinge sizes and breaks down into two parts for easy storage and transport. For $285 you get the jig, a fabric case, a router bit, a guide bushing, and other accessories. Trend Routing Technology, 877/918-7363, trend-usa.com
Next-Generation Framing Gloves
When Ironclad introduced the first Framer work gloves in 1998 to protect carpenters’ hands without sacrificing dexterity, it launched a new trend. An amazing variety of task-specific gloves are now available. The Framer gloves will be upgraded this spring. According to Ironclad, the gloves will still expose the tips of your middle finger, index finger, and thumb so you can easily manipulate tools and materials, and they’ll still have a terry-cloth sweat wipe behind the thumb. But they’ll also have better knuckle protection than their predecessors, a hybrid cuff for quick removal if they get caught on something, and extra reinforcement throughout. (See the company’s website for a printable sizing chart.) They’ll sell for $27 a pair. Ironclad, 888/314-3197, ironclad.com
Adjustable Fiberglass Stepladder
Little Giant’s new Type IA Select Step Fiberglass Model 5-8 stepladder is a combination 5-, 6-, 7-, and 8-footer, with telescoping front and back rails that allow you to work on stairs and uneven surfaces or position the back rails vertically to work against a wall. The spreader itself serves as a standing platform. An optional “AirDeck” workstation attaches to the top cap in two different positions to hold up to 15 pounds of tools and materials and provide a high handrail when needed; it also clips to the back rails for storage. The ladder weighs 31 pounds for easy lifting and has a pair of wheels so you can tip and roll. It costs $230, plus $40 for the AirDeck workstation. Little Giant, 800/453-1192, littlegiantladders.com
Metal-Cutting Saw
BN Products began as a sheet-metal fabricator in 1925, and claims that it once made thousands of telephone booths, some of which are still standing. It now offers specialty tools and related products to the trades. At its STAFDA booth, the company demonstrated the new corded flush-cutting BNCE-20 Cutting Edge Saw by making burr-free cuts through 3?4-inch grade-60 rebar in about four seconds per cut. I was told that you can typically make 200 to 300 of these cuts on site before you have to replace the 43?8-inch carbide-tipped saw blade. The tool also cuts threaded rod up to 7?8 inch in diameter, 1?2-inch EMT conduit, and other metallic materials; and has a rotating trigger handle for added maneuverability. The kit costs about $350 and includes two blades, a chip collector, and a blow-molded case. Replacement blades cost $25. BN Products, 800/992-3833, bnproducts.com